Which Irish county is associated with the 'Wexford Carol'?

The “Wexford Carol” is associated with County Wexford, particularly the town of Enniscorthy in southeastern Ireland. It is also called the “Enniscorthy Carol,” reflecting its local origin and long connection with the area.

The carol tells the Nativity story, including Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging, the shepherds’ visit and the arrival of the Magi. Its precise age is uncertain. Claims that it is an early medieval song are widespread, but its musical and lyrical style more cautiously suggests composition in the fifteenth or sixteenth century.

The song became much better known through William Grattan Flood, an organist and musical director at St Aidan’s Cathedral in Enniscorthy. He transcribed it from a local singer’s performance and helped bring it into published carol collections, including The Oxford Book of Carols.

The county name is sometimes confused with the carol’s title or with Dublin and other Irish counties. “Wexford” identifies the geographic tradition, while “Enniscorthy Carol” gives the more precise local association. The song also has Irish-language versions.